Do not let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do.
-John Wooden
Being visually impaired, I applied Wooden’s phrase in whatever I do. Unfortunately, many felt I wouldn't go far in life. Football has taught me that anything is possible and anyone's dreams can come true if one is willing to put forth their best effort.
This story begins with one visit to my local LA Fitness. We were all looking for trainers for the family and I told them that I wanted to train for athletics (football). The idea to play was when I was speaking to a friend (who was captain of the varsity). He told me that my body was built for it and I believed he might be right. I received Marlin, who was a former Marine, as my trainer. We got to work to get me ready for summer camp. He put me through so much that tested my strength, my discipline and my heart. He would always say to me, "Pain is just weakness leaving the body."
After six months of training, I was ready to speak to Jake Haley, El Toro's head coach, about my interest in playing. Coach Haley and his staff agreed that I can play. They placed me on the varsity roster because I was going to be a senior that year. I went through summer camp and I met my team and all my coaches. Coach Steve Hohl was my offensive line coach and he came up with a plan that would allow me to play. The center would give me a direction such as, "on, in or out." He also decided that right guard would be the best place for me to play. I attended all practices and my goal was for me to play in a game. That wish came true in a game against San Clemente High School. I got to play in a PAT and our last offensive series. It was so amazing to watch the crowd rise up to chant my name, my reaction and my teammates' support.
Coach Haley and his staff saw me not only as a football player, but an inspiration to my team, my school, and to people who wish to have their dreams come true. At the end of the year, the team named an award after me because they felt I was such an inspiration to them and future El Toro football players to come. It was called the Jestin Samson Inspiration Award. The award is supposed to stand for dedication to leadership and courage.
Today, I speak to colleges, educating them about vision impairment. If I could give one piece of advice to people, it is that the only thing worse than failing is mediocrity. It would be my wish for everyone to give it their best in what they choose to do.
None of this would be possible with the help of Marlin, my coaches and family.
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